The Cockburn Association 1875–2049

Campaigning for Edinburgh tells the story of the Cockburn Association – the city’s civic watchdog, which, since 1875, has campaigned to protect and enhance. It shows how citizen involvement can, and should, be key to the planning, development and management of places. The book also looks forward, imagining what the city might be like in 2049.

In 1849 Henry Cockburn asked: what will Edinburgh look like in 1949 or in 2049? He inspired Britain’s first amenity society – the Cockburn Association – the city’s civic watchdog, which, since 1875, has campaigned to protect and enhance for future generations the unique features that make Edinburgh ‘Edinburgh’. Campaigning for Edinburgh tells that story: one of active stewardship, showing how citizen involvement can, and should, be key to the planning, development and management of places. The book also looks forward, imagining what the city might be like in 2049.

Like Cockburn himself, the Association has been passionate about trees and green spaces for the people, conservation of historic buildings, Edinburgh’s unique vistas and dramatic skylines. Generations of volunteers have given their time and talents to resist a splurge of intrusive advertising, elevated motorways, the destruction of the Old Town and today’s overtourism. 

Change is constant, bringing many challenges: trams (old and new), mass car ownership, use of concrete, financial and environmental crises. Campaigning for Edinburgh tells why, how and by whom the Cockburn Association has grappled with these, and what needs to be done between now and 2049 to pass on the wonders of this city, a World Heritage Site, to our children, grandchildren and visitors.